According to recent statistics, nearly one in five American’s will have a stroke in his or her lifetime. Though strokes can effect anyone at any age, typically those who experience a stroke do so during their middle age or older years. While there are no warning signs before a stroke, only during a stroke, there are things you can do to decrease your chances of being stricken. Poor nutrition choices, smoking, and inactivity can all increase your odds. Dr. Duma, a leading neurosurgeon in Newport Beach, discusses the ways you can reduce factors contributing to stroke.
Lower Your Blood Pressure- High blood pressure is a leading contributor of stroke. Too much pressure can cause the small arteries to burst and hemorrhage. Eating well and exercising can help improve your blood pressure.
Quit Smoking- Dangerous chemicals in cigarettes build plaque on artery walls. This buildup of plaque can increase your odds of blood clots, eventually leading to stroke.
Keep Your Weight Low- Obesity is a leading factor in strokes since it can increase your odds for diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Work to keep your weight in a healthy range determined by your doctor.
Steady Cholesterol Levels- Similar to heart attacks, many strokes are caused by atherosclerosis, a process of hardening and narrowing in the arteries. Lower LDL cholesterol levels can reduce atherosclerosis in the brain.
Control Diabetes- Elevated blood glucose levels add to plaque buildup in blood vessels and arteries. Getting blood sugar levels steady is an important factor in reducing your stroke risk.
Eat Well- Fresh produce and whole grains can improve your ability to lower blood pressure, fight diabetes, and steady cholesterol levels. Eating less saturated and trans fats is also important for artery health.
Exercise- Just as eating well is important, exercise can also lower blood pressure, help stabilize blood sugar, and steady cholesterol levels.
Encompassing a healthy lifestyle increases your ability to prevent or decrease the possibility of stroke, thus maintaining your health and independence. Brain and Spine Surgeons of Orange County has been treating Orange County for over 15 years. Using state-of-the-art technology like Gamma Knife Radiosurgery and Cyberknife Radiosurgery has provided excellent results for patients with brain tumors, brain cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and other movement disorders. To learn more about treatments we offer, or to meet with Dr. Duma, call us at 949-642-6787.
